Prince Bamidele Bajawa

is a proud descendant of the Royal House of Rebuja in Igbotako, Ondo State, Nigeria. From an early age, he developed a deep connection to Yoruba traditions, including drumming, dancing, folk music, and spiritual practices honoring Orishas like Shango, Ogun, and Oshun.

A skilled multi-instrumentalist, Prince Bajawa plays a range of drums including the talking drums (Gangan, Sakara, Bata), as well as djembe and Kpalongo. His music blends traditional Yoruba sounds with contemporary genres like gospel, Highlife, Juju, and Afrobeat, often incorporating chants, storytelling, and praise for the Orishas.

Having collaborated with notable artists like Andrew McPherson and Dennis Gaumond, he has contributed to projects such as Adwoa Badoe’s Griots Journey DVD and the O ‘Canada for Afghanistan compilation. His solo works include two albums: Inspiration – Ishipaya (2007) and So’ro mi d’ayo (2008).

In addition to his music career, Prince Bajawa is dedicated to community service. He founded the Odua Drummers and Cultural Society in Vancouver and is involved in various social projects in his hometown, focusing on education, water conservation, and agriculture.

A passionate performer and educator, he has graced stages at festivals like the Duncan Music Festival and Vancouver Sacred Music Festival, and led drumming workshops across Canada. As an Ifá initiate and custodian of his family’s ancestral masked dancer tradition, he continues to honor his cultural heritage with every performance.